If you own a car, an OBD2 scanner is among the most important accessories you can have. What’s even better is that anyone can quickly and easily become proficient in using an OBD2 scanner.
Owning an OBD2 scanner can free you from reliance on auto repairs and save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the course of vehicle ownership through preventative care. Here are some of the things you can accomplish with an OBD2 car diagnostic:
- Diagnose and clear error codes
- Car coding lets you make changes to your car.
- Check the VIN of your car.
- Identify odometer fraud
- Fix things and keep them in good shape.
- Conduct test emissions check
So, we’ll show you how to use an OBD2 scanner so you can get the most out of your car and start saving more money.
An OBD2 scanner:
An OBD2 scanner can be carried about in your pocket. The device is a 16-pin connector which can access any and all information stored in your car.
By connecting to your car’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) port, a second-generation onboard diagnostics (OBD2) scanner may perform a wide variety of diagnostic checks. This interface is where your car’s data on all of its ECUs are kept.
Simply connecting an OBD scanner to the OBD2 port in your vehicle will give you access to the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system. After the OBD gadget collects data, you can view it on your mobile device via an OBD app.
Tips for deciding on an OBD2 scanner:
In the OBD2 scanning market, you may get anything from a basic code scanner to high-tech automobile scan equipment.
The type and depth of information you seek regarding your vehicle, however, will determine the best scanner for you. There are three factors to consider while selecting an automobile scan tool:
1. Dimension and amenities
Equipment requirements for vehicle scan tools might vary widely. Wireless OBD2 scanners are indeed the best option for those who need a portable tool. Since they don’t require cables or adapters, these wireless scanners can go everywhere.
A professional diagnostic instrument, like a portable diagnostic scanner or testing software, may require extra hardware, such as a computer, and is often larger in size.
2. Depth of functionality
There are scanners available that only provide the most fundamental diagnostic capabilities and generic error codes. But there are some that offer more sophisticated features that every automotive enthusiast would adore.
Scanning and deciphering diagnostic codes is all that a simple code reader can do. Delete error codes and perform perhaps other elementary tasks. However, other scanners include a plethora of extra functions, such as expert vehicle analysis, vehicle code, actual data, and more.
3. Functionality
There is no guarantee that your make and model of the automobile will be supported by any data analysis refers tool. If your Bluetooth OBD2 scanner also has a mobile app, you’ll want to make sure it’s compatible with your phone’s OS.
Read more: Tips for buying obd2 scanner with relearn
How To Use an OBD Scanner: Follow these 3 simple
Connect the OBD2 scanner to the car’s onboard diagnostics port.
Common locations for your car’s OBD-II port include beneath the wheel and on the left of an accelerator pedal. The adapter may be wired to your car’s electronic control units (ECUs) via this tiny plug-in connection. Most vehicles produced after 2001 have an OBD2 diagnostic port. You can either look it up on our site or read your vehicle’s handbook.
Activate the vehicle’s engine
The OBD2 scanner will begin gathering data from your car’s multiple systems and components as soon as you start the engine.
Put your OBD2 scanner’s mobile app on your phone and activate Bluetooth
Ensure you have the OBD2 scanner app installed on your mobile device. The Carly app is available for download on both iOS and Android mobile devices.
Launch the app afterward and tap the “connect” button. By doing so, a Bluetooth link between your phone and the scanner will be created.
After you’ve successfully linked up, you’ll be able to exert greater command over your vehicle. Learning to interpret error messages displayed by your car, such as the “check engine” warning, is an excellent first step. Here, we’ll outline the full scope of your automobile’s capabilities.
If you follow the previous instructions, you’ll be able to utilize an OBD2 scanner effectively. If you have your personal OBD2 Scanner, you may check on your car’s health without visiting a professional.
In addition, you will have access to the more sophisticated features found in more expensive scanners and auto-scan tools. You can save yourself more than $3,000 by purchasing an excellent scanner for a far more reasonable price. In this way, you can feel confident that you are purchasing a worthwhile solution that will more than pay for itself after only one use.
Having access to a personal diagnostic scan tool allows you to exhibit a massive impact on your vehicle. In that case, are you prepared to begin using your very own OBD-2 scanner?
How to Use an OBD2 Scanner Video Guide
FAQs:
How often should I use an OBD scanner in my car?
If your vehicle is not displaying any alert signals, it is advisable to use an OBD scanner regularly. Regular scanning can assist you in identifying and fixing possible issues before they become serious. A monthly or twice-monthly scan is recommended to ensure maximum vehicle performance and early identification of potential faults.
Can an OBD scanner fix the issues it detects?
The answer is No; an OBD scanner is a diagnostic tool that cannot resolve problems alone. Its major function is to identify and deliver details about vehicle faults. Based on the trouble codes, you can take the appropriate measures to repair or replace faulty components.
Is it safe for me to use an OBD scanner myself?
If you are unfamiliar with automotive electronics or are unsure about reading the data collected through your scanner, it is better to check with a professional repair.
Can I clear the trouble codes with an OBD scanner?
Absolutely when you’ve diagnosed and fixed the issues, most OBD scanners allow you to clear the trouble codes. However, it is important to note that clearing the codes without resolving the deeper problems may result in return issues or serious vehicle damage. Always solve the root cause before clearing the codes.
Can I use my smartphone as an OBD scanner?
Yes, smartphone apps can transform your device into an OBD scanner. These apps use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapters to connect your phone to the OBD-II port. However, picking a trustworthy app and ensuring compatibility with your vehicle is essential.
Final Verdict
By carefully following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you can easily connect your OBD scanner, get error codes, and fix those issues.
Remember that an OBD scanner is a diagnostic tool, and it’s essential to know how to read the codes it gives. You can get help from the user manual instructions to learn more about the trouble codes and their meaning. Using an OBD reader regularly will help you keep your car running well, extend its life, and make sure you drive safely.
I am Solaiman Kabir a car blogger. Owner of carsfed.com
I have owned some cars. I have been driving a lot for 15 years. I try to solve all problems including their general maintenance, servicing, and mechanical faults.
I usually don’t go to a servicing point unless there is a major fault.
I share on many social platforms what I have learned from this long experience.
The purpose of creating this blog is to share my personal experience and expertise in any cars related problem and troubleshooting.